1518 - Endoscopic non-contact (side-firing) visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

Page last updated: 21 October 2019

Application Detail

Description of Medical Service

This MSAC application focuses on photoselective vaporisation (PVP) of the prostate using the GreenLight laser system, given it is the VLAP procedure most frequently performed in clinical practice in Australia for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Description of Medical Condition

BPH is one of the most common diseases of the prostate, characterised by enlargement of the prostate, causing the urethra to narrow and place pressure on the base of the bladder. Narrowing of the urethra can cause problems with the passing of urine in several ways. BPH is often associated with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which in BPH, may be obstructive (including symptoms such as delay or straining when starting to pass urine, and slow flow of urine) or irritative (including symptoms such as urgent or frequent urination during the day and night). Furthermore, LUTS associated with BPH are often accompanied by sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction (ED) and ejaculatory problems. While not life-threatening, BPH can be detrimental to a patient’s quality of life. When symptoms of BPH increase in severity, surgical treatment will be considered. Surgical therapy of the prostate is indicated for patients with severe or high impact symptoms.

Reason for Application

Amendment to existing MBS items

Medical Service Type

Therapeutic

Previous Application Number

Not Applicable

Associated Documentation

Application Form

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Consultation Survey

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PICO Confirmation

PICO Confirmation (PDF 1125 KB)
PICO Confirmation (Word 215 KB)

Assessment Report

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Public Summary Document

Public Summary Document (PDF 1173 KB)
Public Summary Document (Word 311 KB)

Meetings for this Application

PASC

12-13 April 2018

ESC

8 February 2019

MSAC

28-29 March 2019